Scapular Stabilization Exercises Combined With Thoracic Mobilization in Breast Feeding Mothers With Upper Back Pain

Upper-back pain is common among breastfeeding mothers and may be associated with prolonged feeding positions, forward-bent posture, reduced thoracic mobility, and weakness of the muscles controlling the shoulder blades. This study will compare scapular stabilization exercises combined with thoracic spine mobilization with scapular stabilization exercises alone in breastfeeding mothers experiencing upper-back pain.

Seventy eligible breastfeeding mothers aged 18-35 years will be assigned to one of two treatment groups. Both groups will receive scapular stabilization exercises, while one group will additionally receive thoracic mobilization performed by a trained physiotherapist. Treatment will be provided three times per week for eight weeks.

Pain intensity, functional ability, and spinal range of motion will be assessed at baseline, Week 4, and Week 8. The study aims to determine whether adding thoracic mobilization to scapular stabilization exercises provides greater improvement in pain, mobility, and daily functioning than scapular stabilization exercises alone.